Most dentists suggest that dental checkups and cleanings should occur every six months in order to keep plaque and tartar from building on your teeth and around your gum line.
Why Are Regular Dental Checkups and Cleanings Important?
There are many reasons why people choose to forgo their six-month checkups. Everything from time, money, dental anxiety, and disbelief that problems exist are just a few of the endless excuses. Unfortunately, each one can have devastating and lasting effects on a person’s oral health. For dentists, it can be saddening to see someone come in with a multitude of problems, all of which could have been prevented with routine care.
Preventive dentistry is the foundation of all dental offices. If problems can be stopped even before they begin, both you and the dentist win. These checkups allow your dental professional to examine your teeth, gums, bite, and facial structure to ensure everything is developing correctly and there are no signs of abnormalities or infection. Dental cleanings make it possible for you to leave with a plaque-free, healthy, refreshing smile.
Without these regular visits, tooth decay, gum disease, and other harmful conditions can develop, resulting in the need for restorative and cosmetic dentistry, and even oral surgery.
What Can You Do at Home to Improve Your Oral Health?
Apart from your regular dental visits, it’s also important that you maintain a good oral hygiene routine at home. To do this, here are some useful tips:
- Brush your teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush twice a day. Make sure to use fluoride toothpaste to protect against tooth decay and strengthen enamel.
- Floss between your teeth at least once a day to remove harmful bacteria and trapped food particles.
- Rinse with an ADA-approved mouthwash to flush away anything left behind that brushing and flossing missed.
- Avoid consuming too much sugar, as it can cause bacteria to build and eat away at the tooth enamel, eventually causing cavities to form.
- Eat a well-balanced, nutrient-rich diet that works to neutralize acids and maintain a healthy smile.
- Avoid smoking or using tobacco products, as well as consuming excessive amounts of alcohol.
Now that you know the importance of preventive care and keeping your smile looking its best, you can start your new year off on a better path to oral health.
About the Author
Dr. Drew Addy believes in the importance of preventive dentistry. From at-home brushing, flossing, and rinsing to regular, six-month dental checkups and cleanings, the only way to achieve optimal oral health is with consistent care. This is why he is currently offering a special offer for new patients. For $99, you can receive a comprehensive exam, cleaning, and X-Rays. This will allow him to check for any problem areas and stop them before they progress. If you want greater peace of mind when it comes to your smile, contact us at (760) 492-6317.
